Inside the 'retro' seaside town named one of the UK's coolest places to live
This sensational 'retro' seaside town with shimmering sandy bays has been named one of the UK's most trendiest places to live.
A hidden gem on the coast, Broadstairs is loved by locals and is now as "cool" as they come in Kent as the unique town has now been given the official label by Which? Magazine. Its beaches, attractions, value for money and scenery proved a hit and that's not all it's got to offer. If you can't get enough of beautiful sandy beaches and bays, roaming around old and traditional streets with red brick and flint-fronted buildings, then what are you waiting for? With the September sun hanging around a little longer, it's perfect for a day out or a long weekend.
If you love independent shops, cafes, restaurants, ice cream parlours, or bracing clifftop walks with truly spectacular views, then you will love Broadstairs, KentOnline can confirm. One thing's for sure, you won't be bored.
The views are fantastic and you can take on some fantastic walks (Shutterstock / Victoria Martin Photo)From surfing at Joss Bay, to the dramatic chalk stacks of Botany Bay, there are a staggering seven sand-filled beaches and bays to explore. The town is a very cool mix of 'back in the day' vintage feel with the type of vibe and fresh ideas created by being popular with surfers and a coast-loving crowd
Visit Kent describes a "retro feel" to the harbour town and says: "Broadstairs is brim-full of nostalgic, old-world, seaside charm. Sandy bays meet surf schools. Fishermen's cottages meet Charles Dickens's connections. Retro ice cream parlours meet chic shops. Relaxed and unspoilt, this is the perfect place for chilled-out, family-friendly fun."
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And visitors also describe it in glowing terms. One on Instagram said: "An impromptu trip to Broadstairs was just what the doctor ordered. We hopped on a train and zoomed off the seaside and well, I’m in love!
With the September sun still shining, it's the perfect place to get away to (Getty Images)"It feels so cosy and very local which we were here for. Apparently, Charles Dickens used to hang out here too! Coffee at Forts Coffee and fish and chips from The Mermaid were the perfect accompaniment to some time in the sunshine! We even went for a swim even though the water was cold but once you’re in, it’s not so bad. We’ll definitely be going back!"
The pubs, gardens and beaches are alive with music sessions during its folk week, and Broadstairs Water Gala is a family-friendly fiesta ending with fireworks. It was held in August and took place across Viking Bay and Victoria Gardens, including paddle boarding, a teddy bears' picnic and fancy dress competition, and as befits a seaside town, sandcastle competitions.
Although food markets go back hundreds of years, the recent decade has seen a revival of buying direct and talking to producers and growers, and foodies love this town's food festival selling some of the best locally produced food and drink.
If you love breathtaking views and bracing walks with sea air, head up to the clifftop paths which will take you from bay to bay. The main beach at Broadstairs is Viking Bay, and you'll find everything from children's rides, beach huts, surfing a harbour and a clifftop promenade.
If you want to fit in some culture during your visit, then you should head to the Charles Dickens Museum in Victoria Parade in Broadstairs. People rave about it on Tripadvisor, where it has a four-star rating out of a possible five in 175 reviews. One recent visitor said: "Sweet little house in Broadstairs.
"Strongly recommend listening to one of the (free) guides offering insight. There’s not LOADS to see - but for a very small sum of £4 you get a real feel for Dickens in Kent. A nice additional view - similar feel to the Dickens museum in London but so lucky to hear our informative guide. Lovely little shop too!"
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